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The Happiest Place on Earth Goes Wireless

Earlier this year, Disney Parks officially introduced the MagicBand, a wristband with radio frequency identification technology that serves as a room key, theme park ticket, access to FastPass selections, PhotoPass card, and even an optional payment mechanism all in one. This new form of technology brings about many benefits. Combining a visitor’s media into one easy-to-use device makes it much easier for them to keep track of their visitation materials. According to Disney Parks Chairman Tom Staggs, “it’s six [to] ten pieces of paper out of your hand…more importantly, this allows us to unlock more special things for you, depending on what level you want to participate.” This wristband could also shorten wait time since guests could pick up FastPass tickets and make reservations for certain events and attractions prior to coming to the amusement park. Additionally, the company’s decision to make the wristbands optional leaves guests under no obligation to purchase or wear the bands. The band also helps prevent ticket fraud where partial tickets are used to gain entry into the park and even sold on eBay. While helping visitors plan out their day and advancing the technology of Disney Parks, this wristband sets an even higher standard for competing amusement parks.

However, with the amount of data the MagicBand stores, there are some security concerns. If lost or misplaced, a stranger could have access to all of the owner’s belongings. Since guests are permitted to deposit funds onto the wristband, their money could easily be spent if they lost their wristband. The wristband also enables children to make purchases without their parents. The question of whether or not Disney Parks are tracking and storing customer information may also come under scrutiny.